South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Dismisses Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel in Sudden Political Shake Up
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel in a surprise political shake up that has sent shockwaves across the country’s leadership. The announcement was made through a presidential decree broadcast on state television on November 12, 2025. The decree also removed Bol Mel from his position as First Deputy Chairman of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and stripped him of his military rank, demoting him from General to Private.
No official explanation was given for the dismissal and the presidency has yet to name a replacement for the vice president. The move comes amid growing speculation about internal divisions within the SPLM and tensions over succession planning in Juba. Analysts say Bol Mel’s removal is a clear signal of Kiir’s determination to consolidate power and eliminate potential rivals as the country faces mounting political and economic challenges.
The dismissal also extended to individuals closely linked to Bol Mel, including the central bank governor and the commissioner general of the revenue authority, both of whom were removed from their positions. Political observers believe these moves are part of a broader effort by Kiir to reassert control over key state institutions.
Observers warn that Bol Mel’s removal could deepen divisions within the SPLM and raise questions about the country’s political direction. It remains unclear whether the dismissal will trigger further reshuffles or provoke backlash from Bol Mel’s supporters within the military and government.